New Member In Tx

dpgcag · December 2, 2008

Hello. I just joined from Texas, and I've got a question. I have a 2002 Suburban LT1500 2WD. I presume I have the standard 3.73 rear end ratio on the vehicle. I have towed my 6800 lb 33 ft trailer twice, and my rear differential went out during the 2nd tow. Thus, it is currently in the shop being repaired/replaced. My question is, did pulling the trailer cause this problem? I supposedly have around an 8500 lb tow capacity on the SUV, however it seems the Suburban stayed in OD most of the time during this last tow, on relatively flat terrain. Just wondering if pulling the trailer is too much for the Suburban? Could the rear end problem have been caused from pulling the trailer just 2 times (about 400 miles and 500 miles each trip)? Thanks!!

2000DV4.8 · December 2, 2008

I wouldn't just assume which gears you have in there, it's really simple to find out.

Look on the RPO sheet in the glove box for one of these codes:

GU5 = 3.23

GU6 = 3.42

GT4 = 3.73

GT5 = 4.10

By the way, welcome to the site. Lets see some pictures of the Burb.

Zembonez · December 2, 2008

Welcome to the ZOO.

I doubt your rear end died because of a tow unless it already had issues. Also it is very likely that you have a 3.42 rear gear in that truck. I'd check with the shop and see. If so, swapping for a 3.73 would be pretty easy about new! They should know... or they can check the RPO code in the glovebox.

Good luck man.